Chicago Marathon: Sharon Lokedi lands another major podium in the Under Armour Velociti Elite 3

Sharon Lokedi continues to establish herself among the leading names in world marathon running. On Sunday in Chicago, the Kenyan marathoner finished second in 2:14:07, claiming her seventh podium on the Abbott World Marathon Majors. It was another standout result for an athlete whose consistency at the highest level has become one of her defining traits.

Since winning the New York City Marathon in 2022, Sharon Lokedi has steadily strengthened her record at the most prestigious races on the international calendar. Her victories in New York and Boston reflect her ability to excel on very different courses. This latest performance in Chicago adds to a career defined by her consistency against the world’s best marathoners.

Seven podiums cement her status among the world’s best

Every major marathon brings its own demands. In New York, changes of pace, the challenging course and the intensity of the race call for precise tactical management. Boston tests an athlete’s ability to handle a demanding route. Chicago, meanwhile, is known for its fast course, ideal for setting benchmark times, and the depth of its elite field.

Standing out in these very different settings requires far more than a well-rounded physical preparation. Pacing, effort management and the ability to respond to decisive surges all play a crucial role over the marathon distance.

The challenge was one of the reasons I was drawn to Chicago. Every major marathon is unique, and Chicago is completely different from the races I’ve competed in so far. Racing against the best athletes in the world continues to motivate me, and I’m proud of the effort I was able to put in today. Every race is an opportunity to learn and improve. I’ll draw on those lessons as I continue pursuing my goals.

Her second-place finish confirms her ability to remain competitive in the most demanding of fields. More than an isolated result, this seventh podium on the Abbott World Marathon Majors circuit reflects the continuity of a career built around the biggest international races.

Under Armour Velociti Elite 3: equipment built for performance

The prestigious American race also puts the partnership between Lokedi and Under Armour in the spotlight. A brand partner for nearly a decade, the Kenyan contributes to the development of high-performance running gear, including through her feedback on products designed for racing.

In Chicago, she wore an exclusive edition of the UA Velociti Elite 3, the American brand’s carbon-plated racing shoe. It is designed to meet the demands of the marathon, with particular attention paid to weight, energy return and running efficiency.

Over a distance such as the marathon, choosing a racing shoe is about more than simply looking for a responsive ride. Foot security, long-lasting comfort and the ability to maintain consistent sensations from one mile to the next are also essential considerations for an athlete at this level.

The Velociti range covers several uses, from daily training to racing. The Velociti Elite 3 sits at the top of this speed-focused family, with a design aimed at the demands of road racers. Feedback from athletes such as Lokedi enables Under Armour to continually refine the fit, feel and performance of its models.

At this level, you pay attention to every detail because small things can make a big difference over 42.195 kilometers,” the marathoner says. “What I appreciate most is that Under Armour listens to athletes and continues to improve its products based on our experiences. Having confidence in my kit and racing shoes allows me to focus fully on the race and give my best.

A race kit designed for the demands of the marathon

For this edition of the Chicago Marathon, Lokedi paired her shoes with Under Armour’s Global Pro Runner Kit, including the Women’s Pro Runner Crop Top. This women’s cropped top features HeatGear® technology, developed to enhance breathability and help keep athletes comfortable during exertion.

In a discipline where race conditions, thermal management and comfort can all affect an athlete’s experience, lightweight fabrics and their ability to wick away sweat are key considerations in the design of racing apparel. The full setup reflects a development approach in which shoes and clothing support the athlete without distracting from what matters most: holding pace and managing effort all the way to the finish line.

A partnership built to last

For Under Armour, the Chicago podium is another opportunity to showcase its presence in elite running. Sharon Lokedi holds a special place in that strategy, both through her international results and her contribution to product development.

“Sharon has established herself as one of the most accomplished marathoners in the world through her consistency, determination and willingness to take on every challenge,” says Kevin Plank, Under Armour founder and CEO. Claiming a seventh podium on the Abbott World Marathon Majors circuit against a field of this caliber is a remarkable achievement. We are extremely proud of Sharon and excited to continue supporting her journey.”

While performance ultimately comes down to the athlete’s work, collaboration between elite runners and design teams can help drive the evolution of racing equipment. Lokedi’s career illustrates the connection between first-hand experience and product development.